For the village

During a cold winter, a baby cries can be heard outside the village. It came from the forbidden forest.

Marta sighed, and packed up her rucksack. Large blankets, spectral bottles filled with 3 different kinds of magic formula, and karmic diapers. She knew everyone else would ignore the cries. She also knew ignoring a baby in the forbidden forest would be horrible for the village.

The trek through the winter forest was brutal and unforgiving--Marta's fingertips were black and blue, and her hands trembled just like her mother's used to. The baby's hungry cries in the nearing distance were more than enough motivation to continue on the journey.

She came upon the baby nestled in the snow. Her black and blue hands lifted her as she cooed, “Shh, shh, my baby, my child, I’m here. I’m here.” Marta was grateful to share warmth with her baby. Embracing her gave her courage to turn back for the long trek to the cabin.

Marta uncorked the magic formula and guided small dribbles to the baby’s mouth. The creature squeezed its eyes tightly and began radiating warmth. It worked, Marta thought. She walked back to the cabin, safe with the knowledge that she and her charge were back in good graces.